In recent years, male models have emerged from the shadows of their female counterparts to claim more cultural space than ever before. From Gucci to Vetements, designers are turning to male muses to make their clothes come alive. Street casting has seen the typical male model’s “look” morph from those classic Greek god types to literature students.
Amidst this transfiguration, Charlie Kennedy feels like he’s from another time: he’s the kind of guy who was born to have his name written in the margins of school books. Easy going and sports mad, his brand of golden masculinity speaks to an somewhat nostalgic Australian ideal currently being represented by fellow Antipodean Jordan Barrett. We’re not surprised he got his start after his mum sent photos of him to a modelling agency. He probably eats all his vegetables and take the bins out too.
Where are you from?
I was born in country Victoria and grew up in Melbourne.
What’s it like there?
I love Melbourne, it doesn’t get too cold in winter and there’s plenty to do all year round. I love my sport so I’m lucky that there’s some sort of match on every weekend. The coastline is great on both sides of the bay, and not too far away, so summer is fun too. And the coffee isn’t bad.
When did you first become aware modelling was a real job?
When I was little and my Dad would go on about Jennifer Hawkins.
Cute. When did you realise you could probably do it too?
One day on my way to school, I caught my reflection in the window of a passing train and thought, ‘My God you’re good looking.’
What do your friends think of your success?
They’re really, really jealous.
What’s the biggest misconception about male models?
That we’re all dumb. Only most of us are.
Take us behind the curtain, how do you prepare for a shoot?
ln the morning if my face is a little puffy I’ll put on an ice-pack while doing my stomach crunches. After I remove the ice pack, I use a deep pore cleanser lotion. Then moisturiser, then an anti-ageing eye balm, followed by sunscreen if I’m shooting outside.
Very American Psycho. You have very lovely hair, got any tips?
Don’t cut it.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
I learnt a lot about Mayan culture when I travelled through Guatemala and Mexico and that was pretty cool.
What’s the last movie you saw that you really loved?
The Fifth Element.
Tell us something unexpected about you.
I can run really fast.
Who is your hero?
My parents are pretty great. The older I get, the more I’ve come to appreciate them.
What are you excited about?
I’m moving to New York in a few weeks, can’t wait!
Credits
Text Wendy Syfret
Photography Zac Bayly
Assistant Abby Bennett